Community of Caring is a NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND program used nationally by hundreds of school districts to promote the teaching of Character Education.At UpperMerionAreaMiddle School we live, teach and role model the core values of FAMILY, TRUST, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY and CARING.These core values, along with the character traits associated with the state standards, are infused in daily lessons and discussions. The program also encourages the use of class meetings and service learning to promote core values, as well as academic achievement.

The goal of Community of Caring is to encourage academic excellence, student achievement and responsible citizens through the integration of character.

Research shows that…

Community of Caring is effective in promoting positive school culture and positive attitudes of teachers

Community of Caring fosters improved student attendance, higher grade point averages and character

Students respect and care for each other, even when they are not friends

Teachers respect, care for and have interest in students

Stronger norms develop against vandalism, fighting, cheating, bullying and verbal abuse in school; decrease the number of discipline referrals

Community of Caring is an effective teen pregnancy prevention and alcohol prevention program

Important components include:Curriculum development,bullying prevention, service learning, social inclusion of all students, student leadership, and family and community involvement

The Upper Merion Area School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, religious affiliation, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic status in its educational programs and its employment practices.

The Upper Merion Area School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, religious affiliation, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socioeconomic status in its educational programs and its employment practices.